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aphakia

The Collaborative International Dictionary

Aphakia

Aphakia \A*pha"ki*a\, n. [NL.; Gr. 'a priv. + ? seed of a
lentil.] (Med.)
An anomalous state of refraction caused by the absence of the
crystalline lens, as after operations for cataract. The
remedy is the use of powerful convex lenses. --Dunglison.

WordNet

aphakia

n. absence of the natural lens of the eye (usually resulting from the removal of cataracts)

Wikipedia

Aphakia

Aphakia is the absence of the lens of the eye, due to surgical removal, a perforating wound or ulcer, or congenital anomaly. It causes a loss of accommodation, far sightedness ( hyperopia), and a deep anterior chamber. Complications include detachment of the vitreous or retina, and glaucoma.

Babies are rarely born with aphakia. Occurrence most often results from surgery to remove congenital cataracts (clouding of the eyes' lens, which can block light from entering the eye and focusing clearly). Congenital cataracts usually develop as a result of infection of the fetus or genetic reasons. It is often difficult to identify the exact cause of these cataracts, especially if only one eye is affected.

People with aphakia have relatively small pupils and their pupils dilate to a lesser degree.